1. in a way that deserves or evokes pity; sadly or pathetically
2. to an inadequate or disappointing degree; extremely poorly

Examples

• The injured bird looked pitifully small and helpless.
• She cried pitifully after losing her favorite toy.
• The team performed pitifully in the championship game.
• His pitifully low test scores worried his parents.
• The old dog limped pitifully across the yard.
• The restaurant was pitifully understaffed during the busy evening.
• He sang pitifully off-key throughout the entire song.